Port Dover is located in Norfolk County and is on the shore of Lake Erie at the mouth of the Lynn River.
This quaint resort town has experienced great growth in last few years and now has a population of around 5,500 people.
In 1794 the area was first settled by a group of United Empire Loyalists, and at that time the town was known as Dover Mills and during the War of 1812, American soldiers burned the community down.
Port Dover was once a principal Harbour on Lake Erie at one time had the largest fresh water fishing fleet in the world.
There is an interesting Fishermens' Memorial on the Pier in memory of all those who have lost their lives in the fishing industry.
I think that we often overlook the dangerous conditions under which the brave fishermen work, to provide us with the bounty of the Lakes. When you are in Port Dover, take a moment at the Memorial to remember them.
To the uninitiated, like me, who know that fish comes in a can - fishing is a mystery, but apparently those who love to fish, can find excellent fishing around here!
On a recent visit to this village, hubby and I spent a lovely, restful hour on the River Rider scenic river tour - a relaxing hour-long ride up the Lynn River where you can see the beautiful riverside homes, the Port Dover Yacht Club and the wild beauty of the reed beds and natural areas of the river.
Each Friday 13th throughout the year, thousands of Motorcycle riders and enthusiasts gather in Port Dover - the Bikers' gathering attracts tens of thousands of people from all over Canada and USA. sometimes as many as 75,000 bikers and spectators at a time!
In 2009 there is a Friday the 13th in February, March and November, and also in August 2010, so rev up your engines and head for the Lake!
Usually when my family head for Port Dover, we go for a fish dinner at Callahan's Beach House Restaurant on the beach. Their fish dishes are superb and we always have an enjoyable meal.
You may dine in the restaurant or outside on the patio.
Summer Festival
held at Powell Park, you will find Arts, Crafts, gift ideas and games - this annual event was held on the 18th & 19th of August 2007. As soon as I know the dates of the Summer Festival 2009, I will post them here on this site.
Also in Powell Park you can enjoy the Summer Evening Band Concerts each Sunday evening at 6:30pm throughout July & August.
In nearby Simcoe you can catch the
Norfolk County Fair & Horse Show
, where they are proud to be celebrating 169 years of their Fall Fair - this year it will be held October 6 - 12 2009.
On November there is an unusual Santa Claus arrival - I have seen lots of Christmas Parades, but this is the only one I have ever seen where Santa arrives by fishing boat!
The jolly fellow arrives on a tug boat then parades through town where there is a community bonfire, Christmas Caroling and fireworks.
After the Santa Claus parade, the local merchants have Moonlight Madness shopping until late in the night and this is the official start of the Christmas Season in town!
Hubby and I recently spent a delightful couple of days here in Port Dover, and we stayed at a quaint Bed & Breakfast that I can't wait to tell you about!
So, if you are looking for somewhere to stay for a holiday, or just a couple of days to get away from it all, check out the Angel's Nest, your hostess, Mary, will make sure that you are most comfortable!
To the uninitiated, like me, who know that fish comes in a can - fishing is a mystery, but apparently those who love to fish, can find excellent fishing around here!
Usually when my family head for Port Dover, we go for a fish dinner at Callahan's Beach House Restaurant on the beach. Their fish dishes are superb and we always have an enjoyable meal.
